Accidental Deaths Involving Derringer Handguns: A Report of Three Cases

Accidental deaths due to discharge of dropped handguns have been previously reported. In this report, the authors review the history and design of the derringer handgun and describe three cases of accidental death due to discharge of derringer-type handguns. In two of these cases, the gun was dropped, resulting in a fatal discharge. The design of the derringer and the absence of a safety feature are cited as underlying factors. If the alleged weapon can be obtained, testing may demonstrate that discharge could occur if the gun were dropped.